Asian Stocks Brace for Weak Open as US Tech Slides, Precious Metals Plunge

• Asian markets are set for a weak opening, mirroring technology-led losses on Wall Street, with S&P 500 down 0.3% and Nasdaq 100 down 0.5%.
• Precious metals saw a sharp decline; silver tumbled 9% and gold lost over 4% after reaching record highs, attributed to profit booking.
• A seven-day winning streak for global equities ended, though US stocks are still projected for a 9% gain in 2026 despite various risks.
• President Trump hinted at a preferred Fed Chair candidate and considered firing Jerome Powell, adding to policy uncertainty.
• Oil prices rose amid failed Ukraine talks and China's growth commitment, while Bitcoin edged lower after briefly topping $90,000.

Why It Matters: Global markets face volatility from US tech losses, precious metal plunges, and policy uncertainties.